Epiphany January 6, 2016

An epiphany (from the ancient Greek ἐπιφάνεια, epiphaneia, "manifestation, striking appearance") is an experience of sudden and striking realization. Generally the term is used to describe scientific breakthrough, religious or philosophical discoveries, but it can apply in any situation in which an enlightening realization allows a problem or situation to be understood from a new and deeper perspective. Epiphanies are studied by psychologists^[1][2] and other scholars, particularly those attempting to study the process of innovation.^[3][4][5]
Epiphanies are relatively rare occurrences and generally follow a process of significant thought about a problem. Often they are triggered by a new and key piece of information, but importantly, a depth of prior knowledge is required to allow the leap of understanding.^[3][4][6][7] Famous epiphanies include Archimedes's discovery of a method to determine the density of an object ("Eureka!") and Isaac Newton's realization that a falling apple and the orbiting moon are both pulled by the same force. (Wikepedia)
Epiphany, also known as "Three Kings Day" and "Twelfth Day," is a Christian holiday commemorated on January 6. It falls on the twelfth day after Christmas, and for some denominations signals the conclusion of the twelve days of the Christmas season. Though many different cultural and denominational customs are practiced, in general, the feast celebrates the manifestation of God in the form of human flesh through Jesus Christ, his Son.
The word epiphany means “manifestation” or “revelation" and is commonly linked in Western Christianity with the visit of the wise men (Magi) to the Christ child. Through the Magi, Christ revealed himself to the gentiles. In Eastern Christianity, Epiphany puts emphasis on the baptism of Jesus by John, with Christ revealing himself to the world as God's own Son. Likewise, on Epiphany some denominations commemorate Jesus' miracle of turning water into wine, signifying the manifestation of Christ's divinity as well. (About Religion)
Have you ever thought about what Epiphany means to you. Both the secular understanding and the Christian understanding are parallels to meaning for me. The ancient Greek roots are especially interesting, ἐπιφάνεια, epiphaneia, "manifestation, striking appearance”. It is a sudden insight that just does not appear out of thin air but is a realization based on knowledge that we have and see in a new way.
Take Matthew 2 and the wise men. They were scholars of their time. They recognized before meeting Jesus, Mary and Joseph the significance of the star. Yet, they were not aware of the total picture until they arrived at Bethlehem. So we too are aware of the knowledge of our savior. Does the Natal Star shine in our lives? What is it we pursue? How do we take the knowledge we have about Christ and use that for epiphanies in our lives?
This year may be the challenge we face as to how we will live according to Christ. I would suggest thinking less about our resolutions and more about our faith. Increase your knowledge of God though bible study, small group participation, prayer, worship, and through receiving the sacraments.